06/10/2026
Where it all started… 💚🖤
Before Ernie’s Panel Shop became what it is today, it all began from very humble beginnings, in a garage in Napierville.
From there, Ernie took the next big step and moved into the first official workshop on 1 November 1993 at 33 Clough Street, trading under the name Ernie’s Auto Shoppe.
Less than a year later, in October 1994, the business moved to 65 Victoria Road, behind the old Debbie’s building. That workshop became home to so many memories, countless repairs and, of course, some of Ernie’s most infamous project vehicles, including Fatcat and Chilly W***y. 🚗
Looking back at the old business cards, workshop photos and projects, it’s incredible to see how far the business has come.
What started in a garage became more than three decades of hard work, passion, friendships, loyal customers and a name that became well known throughout Pietermaritzburg.
As we count down Ernie’s final days at the shop, we’ll be sharing more of the memories and stories that helped build Ernie’s Panel Shop into what it is today.
From humble beginnings to a lasting legacy. 💚
